UAD all the way for the BIG vocal sound, and absolutely incredible guitar sounds. Two 57s through this thing on a cranked cab, and you're all set. I will never EVER use anything else on rock guitars.

Bonus! A POD loses its digital edge when put through the DI on this thing. It becomes easier to sneak it into the mix without being noticed.

sebatron has some nice gear that may fit your needs

For phat and punch in a preamp that also kicks ass and does well for bass DI and for sources such as keys/synth/drum machine/sampler I almost always go through an API - http://www.api.com 2nd to that would be either an older or re-issue Neve or Neve type clone such as the Vintech, Great River NV or Chandler.

AudioGaff wrote: I almost always go through an API - http://www.api.com .

not many preamps on that site :)

Sen wrote: [quote=AudioGaff]I almost always go through an API - http://www.api.com .

not many preamps on that site :)

Ya ok. Try this... http://www.apiaudio.com/apihomeSet2.html

thanks AG

AudioGaff

What's the main difference (soundwise) between the 500 and the 200 serie of the API preamps?

I'm thinking about configuring a 4 channel rackmounted unit for my remote rig, and 4 X 200 modules + their self powered rack case would fit my needs; is there any other difference ?
I almost always see the 500 as recommended when talking about API, what's the matter with those? To get 4 500 modules would call for a lunchbox at least (or the 3124, a bit out of my reach for the moment), while the 200 would easily fit into a 1U rackspace.

Thanx

L.G.

No difference sound-wise, the 500 series is ussually a better deal.

What's the main difference (soundwise) between the 500 and the 200 serie of the API preamps?

Besides the 200 series not having the DI or front XLR, the 200 series has a smaller transformer that does change the sound a very small bit. API makes a 2-slot frame that is one rack space for the 500 series.

Thanx for the reply.

I was considering the 2X500 rack too; my plan is to equip my rack with a good variety of preamps, using the API for the "colored" side of things; I'm about to get a Focusrite ISA428 with digital option (I alreday have an Octopre, yes yes, I know it's not a household name here, but it's doing its job fairly well, though the upgrades are in the works), that would give me another 4 channels of AD conversion to go to my HD recorder via lightpipe.
Maybe the 2X500 API would be a good choice too, leaving space for another flavor of preamp (opinions welcome here).

What do you think?

Keep in mind that being this the rig I use for remote gigs I'd like to keep it as portable as possible (if a 12RU case is portable...) so I'd stay away from heavyweights.
Also I record mostly acoustic music (from jazz to folk and classical, few pop or rock gigs, but sometimes one of those comes in too).

Thanx for your feedback.

L.G.

if youre going to get the 2x 500 rack and 2 500 modules, youve almost got enough for the 3124. 3124 new is 2500(often 2200 used), 2x 500 modules in rack is about 2100 or 2200. you can get 2 more channels for not much more

Not only is the API 3124 a great 4-ch single space rack mount choice, but for a little more you can get the mixer option that would also give a 4x2 mixer with pan and effects send/return.

And after you hear and fall in love with the API mic pre, you will surely want to add the API eq and compressor down the line...

minimoog600 wrote: Hi i come from Hong Kong ! This is my first post here and :D is to all of you ! i am looking for a good colored pre to track some analog synth and module so as to drive them punch and warm.

The Sebatron vmp-4000e is a great 4 channel transformer based tube mic pre that is perfect for adding "color" to synths and drum machines.

The front panel 1/4" di inputs are perfect for this application and the ability to daisy chain one pres input from the output of another to add more color and to control drive characteristics is very cool! I am not sure if this can be accomplished with the API, at least I have never tried it..

Audio Gaff, to the best of my knowledge, has never had the chance to hear a Sebatron yet, so I think that may be why he is remiss in mentioning them when asked about pres..

I have heard the vmp 4000 and also I have had many chances to work with the API pres.. especially the 3124 previously mentioned and I will say that the vmp 4000 can hold its own when compared to the API.. and at a significant price savings.

Yea Kurt as everybody knows I love my Sebatron. Thats nice to know that you think the Sebamp can keep up with the big boys.I dont have any expieirence with high end preamps,and I know you do.
When I listend to the samples at the listeningsessions.com
( Th e sebatron is not in the samples)out of all those Peamps samples I liked the API the best even over the Neve stuff.I know its kinda hard to judge that way but It gives you an idea.I believe Sheryl Crow is using those Api remakes .Id like to have some APi stuff $$$$$$$$ but the Sebatron has so much variation, Its alot of fun.That makes me happy that you think the Sebamp can compare with the Api .

:o .......thanks all and i will find some information of sebetron and Api.